Washington memorial sampler

Washington memorial needlework sampler
Maker: Susanna Smith
Linen, silk
1800

Status

Not on view

Date1800

Geography Made - United States

Medium/TechniqueSilk embroidery on linen

DimensionsOverall (H x W): 20 1/4 in. × 16 1/4 in. (51.44 cm × 41.28 cm)

Credit LineAcquired through the generosity of the Oregon Charter Members, 1995

Object numberM-3846/A-B

DescriptionSampler in vertical rectangular format featuring, from top to bottom: an upper case alphabet, lower case alphabet, numbers 1-10, stitched signature, several verses, an eagle, and a black urn marked "GW" surmounted by a flag, liberty cap on pole, trumpet or horn, and a hatchet, within a laurel wreath. A stylized border surrounds the whole, with sprigs of 3 blossoms or fruits on top and bottom and single blossoms or fruits on the side.

The sampler is worked in shades of blue, green, white, brown, black, gold, and pink silk thread.

SignedStitched below alphabet and number bands: "Susanna Smith born July 16 1792 aged 8 years 1800".

MarkingsStitched in middle band: "Ye sprightly fair whose gentle minds incline / To all that's curious innocent and fine; / With admiration in your works are read / The various texture of the twining thread / Then let the fingers whose unrivaled skill / Exalt the nedle grace the nedle quill." Stitched in the lower band: On left of eagle: "George Washington / Commander in chief / of the Columbian Army / born Feb 11th 1732". On right of eagle: "George Washington first / President of the United / States of Columbia / From 1789 to 1797" "Lamented chief! at thy distinguish'd deeds / The world shall gaze and wonder with applause; / While on fair history's Page the Patriot reads / Thy matchless valor in thy country's cause. " "First in PEACE first in WAR first in the / HEARTS of his COUNTRY MEN"

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